Each Year an estimated 11,000 people converge at the Hatch Shell in August to witness a mega event of sorts – India’s Independence Day hosted by the IAGB or the India Association of Greater Boston. A similar event in a smaller scale happens at the Burlington High School in January when the Association celebrates India’s Republic Day. These two unique events allow hundreds of Indian Americans to gather and celebrate and in a sense involve themselves in a community building exercise that features cultural Programs and exciting shows, nurturing the talent and enthusiasm of young and old, participants and audience alike.

The year 2004 is no different but in its many years of existence the Association has seen the entry of new office bearers, new programs and fresh talent. Anupam Wali, a long time member of IAGB and this year’s President, begins his term in a year of growth and change. About the challenges ahead, he says “This year we hope to introduce programs that will involve the youth in the Indian American community. This is a group that we hope to attract and provide a platform to focus on their needs and wants that are very different from many in our generation. That is a big challenge. We are working on the basics of how to go about it. As you know IAGB also offers Visa Camps, and works with Saheli, the women’s group. This year Mohan Dali’s Shatranj Ke Mohare was also highly appreciated. In his new role, Anupam Wali strongly believes in empowering his team because “They will then have the freedom and responsibility to act with confidence”. He also hopes to work with other local organizations and seek collaboration and help on common issues.

Rajinikanth, Vice President strikes a similar note, "This year we would also like to focus on adding a new event with youth (high schoolers, for instance) in mind. “What I think IAGB should continue to do (and do even better) is being a showcase and forum for the best of Boston in terms of its cultural talent and diversity. Greater Boston is blessed with enormous local talent and IAGB will do everything it can to bring it in front of the Indian American community. In addition, we should also sponsor such critically acclaimed events as 'Shatranj Ke Mohre' to cater to different audiences.

Pradeep Audho, Treasurer would like to focus on increasing the membership. “I will be focusing on growing the membership of the organization. We will focus on attracting more people from a wider cross section of the population to get them involved in all aspects of Indian culture. We will also be introducing some very exciting new benefits for our members which we hope will encourage more people to join IAGB. The announcement of these benefits will be made in February-March 2004.”

Said Chitra Parayath, Secretary, IAGB, "IAGB is truly a people’s organization. You and I and everyone who has ever attended an IAGB event or is planning to, is part of our family! There is so much we can do for one another, should we get to know each better. At the IAGB Republic Day event we invite you all to come and talk with an IAGB member or representative and get to know us better. I look forward to meeting you all at the celebration on January 24 at the Burlington High School. Do remember to stop by the IAGB booth and say hello!"

This year’s Republic Day celebration promises to be a cultural and entertainment gala with plenty of food, music and dance. Many non profits will also be present outside with information and literature. The Dana Farber Cancer Institute Will Sponsor A Bone Marrow Drive At the IAGB Event. Catamaran, a magazine of South Asian American Writing” featuring new and upcoming South Asian writers will be available for an Introductory price of $5. Part of the proceeds of the sales will go to Saheli.

The event will be held at the Burlington High school, Saturday, January 24th. Admission is free and Seats are limited so please come early to avoid disappointment.

To know more go to www.iagb.org

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